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Specimen Collection Manual and Test Catalog

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SODIUM, WHOLE BLOOD

Geisinger Epic Procedure Code:  LAB3069    Geisinger Epic ID:  14428

SPECIMEN COLLECTION
Specimen type: 

Whole blood


Preferred collection container: 
Alternate collection container: 
3 mL green/black top lithium heparin tube
Specimen required: 

1 mL whole blood; minimum 0.4 mL.


Special notes: 

Due to sample instability, this test may only be collected and analyzed at performing laboratory sites.



SPECIMEN PROCESSING
Transport temperature: 

Room temperature (preferred) or in an ice slurry.


Specimen stability: 

Stable 1 hour at room temperature or in an ice slurry.


Rejection criteria: 

Stability limits exceeded.



TEST DETAILS
Reference interval: 

135 - 146 mmol/L.


Critical values/courtesy alerts: 
Below 120, above 155 mmol/L.
CPT code(s):  84295
Note: The billing party has sole responsibility for CPT coding.  Any questions regarding coding should be directed to the payer being billed.
The CPT codes provided by GML are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only.

Test includes: 

Sodium.


Methodology: 
Potentiometric
Synonyms: 

NAWB


Clinical significance: 

Sodium in whole blood can rapidly assess the hydration state of the patient and help diagnose several diseases that affect water and electrolyte imbalance. Addison's disease, diabetes insipidus, aldosteronism, and inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (ADH) secretion typically require electrolyte monitoring.


Doctoral Director(s): 
Hoi-Ying Elsie Yu, PhD, DABCC, FADLM
Sheng-Ying (Margaret) Lo, PhD, DABCC
Benjamin Andress, PhD, DABCC
Review Date:  01/14/2025

Performing Locations